4 scenarios that could see the Panthers challenge for NFC South in 2022
By Dean Jones
Carolina Panthers capitalize on Saints/Falcons transitions
The departure of Sean Payton as New Orleans Saints head coach and the Atlanta Falcons trading Matt Ryan following the team’s failed bid for Deshaun Watson leaves more questions than answers. Although some extraordinary salary-cap manipulation by Mickey Loomis and his front office team has come with a certain degree of hope things can get going in the right direction in Louisiana.
It’s no guarantee, obviously. And there is also the form of Jameis Winston to consider after the quarterback works his way back from a serious knee injury.
Less is expected of the Falcons, who will now move forward with Marcus Mariota as their starting quarterback and also drafted Desmond Ridder as a potential long-term option. It remains to be seen whether either can immediately fill the void left by Ryan – a former NFL MVP who has been at the heart of everything good in Atlanta since 2008.
The Carolina Panthers have some substantial concerns at the most important position on the field themselves. But these potential transitions for two divisional adversaries provide hope if Matt Rhule’s men can make the necessary improvements.
Winning their divisional games will be pivotal. If they can achieve success against the Saints and Falcons, it will do their chances an untold amount of good.